Sunday Photo Fiction is a weekly challenge now presented by Susan Spaulding, who has taken over this great weekly prompt from my old friend Al Forbes.
This week, once again, she has selected a photo of mine, taken here in sunny Medville.
Thanks, Susan!
The idea is to write a short story (200 word max) inspired by what you see in the picture (below).
Click on this link to enter your tale, and see what others have written.
© C. E. Ayr
Click here to hear the author read the tale:
The Bell
I lie awake all night, listening to the bell tolling the hours towards my doom.
Sunday morning, the end of everything.
I think back, wonder how I could have been so stupid.
How did I get myself into this ridiculous situation?
What on earth was I thinking when I proposed this?
Well, it is too late to back out now.
I have to go through with it, regardless of the cost.
Think of the disgrace, the humiliation, the mockery of friends and family, if I do not.
I rise early, shave carefully.
I shower thoroughly, and dress meticulously.
I have to look my best for the big event.
I drink two cups of coffee, but cannot eat.
I am far too nervous.
My best friend arrives to escort me to the rendezvous.
He too looks nervous, but forces some jollity.
Relax, he says, patting his pockets, I have everything you need right here!
We get out of the carriage at the old churchyard, and walk slowly round the side of the building.
And there I see the person who has been on my mind all night.
And his second, with pistols primed.
Wow a surprise at the end. An interesting one though. He’s nervous, and has good reason too. Perhaps, his hands will shoot faster due to the adrenaline in his body. When Flight isn’t a possibility, so fight he must for him, and her. Hugs CE.
Laughing. You are always the pragmatist, Amanda, seeking the benefits of adrenaline!
I think a duel might be safer than getting married for this individual, great twist.
Ha ha ha. This one, he just might be able to get out of…
Get me to the church on time…bang!
Sort of thing!
Ah, very good. I was waiting for the twist reveal, I like where it went.
As long as you enjoyed it, I am happy
Un duel au soleil !
La mort, ou un sort pire que la mort!
For some, the end result is the same. Nicely done C.E., as always
How cynical, Susan!
For a moment, I thought he was getting married, but this is more interesting. Oh, if anyone can give us the skinny behind the photo, it’s you.
I hoped to lead you there, James.
And what would you like to know?
A mini thriller – well ‘tolled’…
Thank you for the photo – I did a short poetic Septolet series –
(It’s at a site where I approve comments – so please do…comment) ~Jules
Tonally Worth It?
Groan at the pun, Jules, but lovely to see you here
wordsmythes… just can’t pass up the opportunity to play, can we?
Wish I had time to read every story every week. 🙂
Meticulously crafted.
I thoroughly enjoyed the ride to the church. And the meanderings leading to it!
Love the ‘Gotcha!’ .
Thanks, Em, I do enjoy a wee meander before the denouement